The Ogoh-Ogoh Festival in Bali is a lively and vibrant tradition that marks the island’s spiritual preparations for Nyepi, the Day of Silence. In 2025, the Ogoh-Ogoh parade and competition took place in Badung Regency, attracting hundreds of locals and tourists alike.
Dozens of talented youth from six sub-districts participated in this unique cultural event, showcasing their creativity through giant, intricate statues.
The 2025 Ogoh-Ogoh Competition Highlights
On the evening of Saturday, March 15, 2025, a crowd gathered at the Giri Nata Mandala Cultural Hall in Badung to witness the Ogoh-Ogoh parade.
The competition featured finalists who had earned their spot after competing in regional assessments hosted by the Badung Regency Cultural Office. The Ogoh-Ogoh creations were judged not only on their artistic merit but also on their artistic performances and traditional values.
@_akuleo84_ Ogoh-ogoh keren 2025 #ogohogoh #paradeogohogoh2025 #ogohogohkeren2025 #parade #bali ♬ 7 Ogoh Ogoh (Balinese Song) – Maharani Record
The ogoh-ogoh “Kungkang Siwa,” a statue symbolising patience, love, and destiny, claimed first place in the competition. It tells the story of a couple blessed with a son, whose appearance resembled a frog.
The statue and its accompanying performances reflected the dedication and patience that are core to Balinese culture.
The Ogoh-Ogoh Festival in Bali: Schedule and Best Locations
The highlight of the Ogoh-Ogoh festivities will take place on Friday, March 28, 2025. The parade, starting in the afternoon and continuing into the evening, will feature stunning and giant ogoh-ogoh statues that represent different deities, mythical figures, and local legends.
The statues will be paraded through the streets before being ceremonially burned, symbolising the purification of negative energy.
For visitors looking to experience the festival, some of the best locations to watch the parade include:
- Kuta: Kuta Market
- Legian: Near Mercure Hotel, Legian Street
- Kerobokan: Lio Square
- Seminyak: Camplung Tanduk
- Denpasar: Puputan Field
- Sanur: Near McDonald’s Sanur
- Ubud: Main street of Ubud (including the Dewa Indra Statue and Puri Ubud intersection)
What Happens After the Festival?
The following day, Saturday, March 29, 2025, marks the beginning of Nyepi, the Day of Silence. From 05:59 WITA on March 29 until 06:00 WITA on March 30, all activities in Bali will come to a halt as locals observe this sacred day of reflection, rest, and spiritual renewal. It is a truly unique experience for those visiting Bali during this time.
So, whether you’re in Bali for the Ogoh-Ogoh Festival or the tranquillity of Nyepi, it’s an unforgettable cultural journey.
